The 30th Medical Group was recently awarded the Defense Health Agency’s Gold Medal for primary care productivity, a recognition that highlights the unit’s dedication to patient care and operational readiness.

The award, ranking medical groups across the Department of Defense on performance in primary care, signifies the 30th MDG’s ability to exceed demanding benchmarks. The team reached 146 percent of its productivity target, placing them at the top among their peers.

“It’s a tremendous honor and validation of our entire team’s dedication to providing exceptional care for our patients,” said Col. Joi Dozier, 30th Medical Group commander. “It shows that we’re going in the right direction, and it’s gratifying for our people to know that their hard work is being recognized.”

Lt. Col. Christine Morris, chief administrator and group practice manager, explained that the recognition is not only about numbers, but also about resilience and teamwork.

“Despite deployments, turnover, and new providers adjusting to military medicine, our team continues to find ways to keep patient care moving forward,” Morris said. “We don’t aim for the minimum — we push for the maximum, and we’ve been able to do that because of the all-in mentality across our clinics.”

Much of the healthcare demand stems from Vandenberg’s unique mission supporting West Coast rocket and test launch activities. Requiring one of the largest Security Forces squadrons in the Department of the Air Force, the installation provides extensive medical processing for deployments, readiness checks, and day-to-day care.

While the award proves success, it also highlights the weight carried by medical professionals operating at such a high pace.

According to the U.S. Surgeon General, health workers facing excessive workloads, limited rest, and administrative burdens are at increased risk for burnout — a condition that can erode morale and well-being. (hhs.gov). 

Support data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that in 2022, 45.6% of health workers reported feeling burned out often or very often, compared to 32% in 2018 — underscoring how rising demands strain even the most dedicated teams. (cdc.gov)

Dozier acknowledged this challenge directly, noting that the group’s achievements were made while many providers carried workloads significantly above standard levels.

“With more providers, we could increase patient access and relieve some of the pressure on our current staff,” she said. “Our people are committed, but they need time to recharge, too. At the end of the day, burnout isn’t just about the provider — it can affect patient safety and the overall experience.”

Despite these challenges, both Dozier and Morris see the recognition as proof that the 30th MDG is moving in the right direction.

“This award tells us that our efforts are being validated, but it also motivates us to keep improving,” said Dozier. “Whether it’s exploring more virtual care options, optimizing workflows, or listening to patient feedback, we’re committed to finding ways to better serve Airmen, Guardians, and their families.”

Morris echoed the sentiment, “We’re patients here, too. Our families get care here. We understand how important it is, and that’s why we push ourselves every day to provide the best care possible.”

The 30th Medical Group’s gold medal recognition reflects not only their current success, but also their ongoing commitment to advancing patient care in the face of evolving challenges.